Aston Villa boss Martin O'Neill was delighted with the steel of his players after their 2-1 defeat of Sunderland.

Villa trailed to Djibril Cisse's second goal of the season but Ashley Young and John Carew struck before half-time to settle the issue in favour of the home side.

It was the perfect response for O'Neill after the shock midweek Carling Cup defeat at the hands of QPR.

O'Neill said: "Sunderland had a lot of possession and they were pushing us right to the end but I thought we did brilliantly to fight back and get the win.

"I am absolutely delighted with the team, delighted with their determination and naturally delighted with a win.

"We had to fight back and try to blow the cobwebs away after losing to QPR in the Carling Cup on Wednesday.

"I'm just really pleased the side has come through and come through strongly. Some performances were outstanding.

"But for us to win today, coming from behind, I really am delighted with the team.

"The side has done well but we didn't have much more energy left in the game and I think the majority of the crowd will forgive us for keeping the ball in the corner in the last few minutes.

"They will forgive us because in terms of entertainment we are as strong as anyone in Britain in that department."